Bioecological Comparison of Angelfish (Pomacanthus sp.): Diversity of Habitat, Sex Ratio, Growth and Production Status in Coral Triangle Waters

Abstract

Angelfish (Pomacanthus sp.) is an ornamental fish that inhabits lush coral reefs. Despite requiring a healthy coral environment to grow and develop, this fish species is often hunted for its high price in the international market. This research aimed to determine the bio-ecology of angelfish, including its habitat, activity, size, structure, growth, and sex ratio, as well as to provide insights into its production status in the last nine years in South Sulawesi, especially in the waters of Pangkajene dan Kepulauan (Pangkep). The angelfish population was observed in waters adjacent to coral reefs in the coastal area of Pangkep. For this research, we used locally caught samples and determined their age using Gulland plot analysis. This study shows that the presence of angelfish does not have a positive correlation with live coral cover. However, their existence is influenced by coral growth forms, such as branching, sub-massive, and massive coral fissures. The samples of the caught angelfish were young, and their gonads were undeveloped. The allometric relationship between the weight and length of angelfish is slow, with them reaching a maximum length of 41.7 cm at 13 years. Based on the results of the study, we found that angelfish with a length of 10.1cm to 15cm are still relatively young and their gonads are still not developed. This size is in great demand in the market. This research also shows a decline in angelfish production. Thus, it is necessary to control the amount of catch and the minimum size of the first catch or provide a catch quota system for each year. The findings of this research can serve as a reference for policymakers, fishermen, and aquascape experts who wish to protect the angelfish population in their natural habitat.